Systems and methods for image magnification using relative movement between an image sensor and a lens assembly

ABSTRACT

The present specification describes a novel system for dynamically modifying the magnification power of optical devices used in high performance and critical applications such as medical procedures. The present specification describes an optical imaging system having a magnification control system connected to a sensor device for enabling movement of sensor device with respect to a lens assembly of the imaging system, wherein distance between the sensor device and the lens assembly is altered to enable different levels of magnification capability.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application relies on U.S. Patent Provisional ApplicationNo. 62/134,742, entitled “Systems and Methods for Image MagnificationUsing Relative Movement Between An Image Sensor and A Lens Assembly” andfiled on Mar. 18, 2015, for priority.

The above-mentioned application is herein incorporated by reference inits entirety.

FIELD

The present specification relates generally to systems for enhancing themagnification power or zoom capability of optical devices, and morespecifically those which are used in medical devices, such asendoscopes.

BACKGROUND

Medical probes such as endoscopes are used for examining and treatinginternal body structures such as the alimentary canals, airways, thegastrointestinal system, and other organ systems. Endoscopes haveattained great acceptance within the medical community since theyprovide a means for performing procedures with minimal patient trauma,while enabling the physician to view the internal anatomy of thepatient. Over the years, numerous endoscopes have been developed andcategorized according to specific applications, such as cystoscopy,colonoscopy, laparoscopy, upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy andothers. Endoscopes may be inserted into the body's natural orifices orthrough an incision in the skin.

An endoscope usually comprises an elongated tubular shaft, rigid orflexible, having a video camera or a fiber optic lens assembly at itsdistal end. The shaft is connected to a handle, which sometimes includesan ocular lens or eyepiece for direct viewing. Viewing is also usuallypossible via an external screen. Various surgical tools may be insertedthrough a working channel in the endoscope for performing differentsurgical procedures.

In an electronic endoscopy system, the main control unit, which is usedto process data from an endoscope, is generally a separate unit whilethe endoscope itself is a device that can be attached to the maincontrol unit. The main control unit comprises a front panel and/or adisplay screen for displaying operational information with respect to anendoscopy procedure when the endoscope is in use. The display screen maybe configured to display images and/or video streams received from theviewing elements of the multiple viewing elements endoscope.

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for improving theimage quality of medical probes, such as endoscopes, to enhance in theaccuracy of a diagnosis. A majority of the endoscopic devices availablein the market have limited magnification power. During an endoscopicprocedure, physicians often want to focus on a specific area in thehuman body to analyze the same in more detail. They are, however,constrained by the limited magnification power of the endoscopic devicesto enlarge or zoom an area of interest. The technical limitations as aresult of the small size of endoscopic devices make it difficult todynamically enhance magnification power in these devices.

Usually, in a typical, non-endoscope imaging apparatus, dynamic imagemagnification is achieved by either moving the complete objective lensassembly or through relative motion between specific groups of lenses.In an endoscopic device, usually, it is not possible to move thecomplete objective lens assembly as the barrel surrounding the lensassembly is fixed within the endoscope so that it can be appropriatelysealed.

In conventional objective lens systems, the magnification is achieved byrelative motion between separate groups of lenses. In such systems, alens group is moved to change a state of the objective optical systemsuitable for normal observation state into a state of the objectiveoptical system suitable for close-up observation so that the objectiveoptical system is closer to a particular object optionally selected froma plurality of objects present in an observation area by an observer tomake it possible to observe the particular object in detail. Inendoscopy systems, because of the miniature size of such devices,providing activators for enabling movement of separate groups of thelens assembly as described above makes the overall system verycomplicated and hence it is not possible to provide a very highmagnification capability in such devices. The conventional endoscopysystems are thus usually constrained as far as their as theirmagnification power is concerned.

There is a need for addressing the above-mentioned limitation in medicalprobes, such as endoscopes, to enhance the quality of medical proceduresconducted using such devices. There is a need for providing endoscopesystems with dynamic magnification capabilities which are easy toimplement in a miniaturized environment and have a robust structure.

SUMMARY

The present specification discloses an endoscope comprising: a proximalend comprising a control portion; a distal end comprising a distal tip,wherein said distal tip comprises at least one objective lens assemblyand at least one sensor configured to receive images captured by saidobjective lens assembly; an insertion tube extending between theproximal end and distal end; and, a magnification control systemcomprising a first end positioned at the proximal end, a second endpositioned at the distal end and a channel extending between the firstend and second end, wherein said first end comprises a first memberpositioned within the channel, wherein said second end comprises asecond member positioned within the channel and physically coupled tothe sensor, and wherein the magnification control system is configuredsuch that movement of the first member causes a corresponding movementof the second member and sensor.

Optionally, the channel is a first cylindrical unit, wherein the firstmember is a first hub, wherein the second member is a second hub, andwherein the second hub is coupled to the sensor and the first hub iscoupled to a user control unit, further wherein the channel is an airtight closed system. Optionally, the second hub is coupled to the sensorthrough a printed circuit board which is located on a horizontal portionof the sensor. Optionally, the user control unit is adapted to generatea signal that causes an actuator to move the first hub in a proximal ordistal direction and thereby communicate a pressure change to the secondmember, causing a movement of the second hub which translates into acorresponding movement of the sensor coupled to the second hub. Stilloptionally, the channel is filled with a fluid and configured to be afluid closed system such that no fluid is permitted to pass outside thechannel and beyond the first hub or second hub. Optionally, saidmagnification control system has a first level of magnificationcapability and a second level of magnification capability, wherein thefirst level of magnification capability is defined by the sensor beinglocated in a first position and the second level of magnificationcapability is defined by the sensor being in a second position such thatthe second position is further from the objective lens assembly than thefirst position.

At the first position, distance of the sensor from the objective lensmay range from 0.7 mm to 1.7 mm and, at the second position, distance ofthe sensor from the objective lens may range from 1.8 mm to 2.7 mm. Atthe first position, the sensor may be at a distance ranging from 1 mm to1.2 mm from the objective lens assembly and at the second position thesensor device may be at a distance of 1.3 mm from the objective lensassembly. The magnification control system may be adapted to move thesensor from the first position to the second position in incrementalsteps of 0.01 mm.

Optionally, the channel comprises a first cylindrical unit coupled to apiston based controller on a proximal end and a second hub on a distalend, and said piston based controller comprises a piston coupled to acontrol switch through a connecting rod and a spring. Optionally, saidcontrol portion, first end and first member are located in a handleportion of the endoscope and said second end and second member arelocated in said distal tip.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope comprising: a lensassembly, wherein said lens assembly comprises a plurality of lenses; asensor configured to receive images captured by said lens assembly; and,a magnification control system coupled to said sensor comprising a firstcylindrical unit coupled to a first hub and a second cylindrical unitcoupled to a second hub, wherein the first cylindrical unit and secondcylindrical unit are connected through an air-tight tube, wherein thefirst hub is coupled to a user control unit and the second hub iscoupled to the sensor, and wherein the magnification control system isconfigured such that movement of the first hub translates into movementof the second hub and sensor device through a change in air pressure inthe air-tight tube.

Optionally, the first cylindrical unit and second cylindrical unit incombination with the tube comprise a fluid tight closed system.Optionally, the second hub is coupled to the sensor device through aprinted circuit board which is located on a horizontal portion of thesensor. Optionally, said magnification control system has a first levelof magnification capability and a second level of magnificationcapability, wherein the first level of magnification capability isdefined by the sensor being located in a first position and the secondlevel of magnification capability is defined by the sensor being in asecond position such that the second position is further from the lensassembly than the first position.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope with an imagemagnification capability comprising: a distal tip section comprising aplurality of objective lenses, a sensor configured to receive imagescaptured by said plurality of objective lenses, and at least oneexpandable and retractable connector coupling the sensor to a lensholder and facilitating a movement of the sensor across a plurality ofpredefined positions; and a magnification control system coupled to saidsensor enabling said movement of the sensor relative to a position ofsaid plurality of objective lenses to provide varying levels ofmagnification capability, wherein said magnification control systemcomprises a first unit coupled to a first hub located in a controlhandle portion of the endoscope and a second unit coupled to a secondhub located in the distal tip section of the endoscope, wherein thefirst unit and second unit are connected through an air-tight tube,having a first level of air pressure, extending from said control handleportion to said distal tip section, and wherein said second hub iscoupled to the sensor and the first hub is coupled to a user controlsystem.

Optionally, said expandable and retractable connector comprises a curvedbended structure. Optionally, said sensor comprises a vertical portion,a first horizontal portion and a second horizontal portion.

Optionally, the endoscope further comprises a second expandable andretractable connector, wherein said first horizontal portion comprises afirst housing to accommodate a movement of the at least one expandableand retractable connector and said second horizontal portion comprises asecond housing to accommodate a movement of the second expandable andretractable connector.

The present specification also discloses a method of operating anendoscope comprising a distal tip with an objective lens assembly and asensor configured to receive images captured by said objective lensassembly, a control handle, an insertion tube extending between thedistal tip and control handle, and a magnification control systemcomprising a first end in the control handle, a second end in the distaltip and coupled to the sensor, and a fluid-tight channel extendingthrough the insertion tube and between the first end and second, themethod comprising: at the control handle, receiving an input to change amagnification level; in response to said input, causing a pressure levelat the first end to change; and as a result of the pressure levelchange, communicating said pressure level change through the fluid-tightchannel to the second end, wherein said pressure level change causes thesecond end to move and, correspondingly, the sensor to move, therebyaltering a distance between the sensor and the objective lens assemblyby an amount determined by said input.

Optionally, increasing the distance between the sensor and the objectivelens assembly by a predetermined unit in response to the input increasesa magnification of the endoscope. Optionally, decreasing the distancebetween the sensor and the objective lens assembly by a predeterminedunit in response to the input decreases a magnification of theendoscope.

The present specification also discloses an imaging optical systemcomprising: an objective lens assembly; a sensor device configured forreceiving the images formed by said objective lens assembly; and, amagnification control system coupled to said sensor device such that themagnification control system enables the movement of sensor devicerelative to the position of said objective lens assembly to providevarying levels of magnification capability. Optionally, saidmagnification control system comprises a first cylindrical unit coupledto a first hub and a second cylindrical unit coupled to a second hub,wherein the two cylindrical units are connected through a tube andwherein the first hub is coupled to the sensor device and the second hubis coupled to a user control unit. Optionally, the two cylindrical unitsalong with the tube comprise an air tight closed system. Optionally, thefirst hub is coupled to the sensor device through a printed circuitboard which is located on a horizontal portion of the sensor device, andapplication of pressure through the user control unit causes movement ofthe second hub and wherein said movement of the second hub translatesinto a corresponding movement of first hub and the sensor device coupledto the first hub.

Optionally, a space between the two cylindrical units and the tube isfilled with a fluid such as water, oil, alcohol, air. Optionally, saidimaging system has two levels of magnification capability, a firstmagnification stage in which the sensor device is located in a firstposition and an increased magnification stage in which the sensor deviceis positioned in a second position such that the second position isfurther from the objective lens than the first position. At the firstposition the sensor device may be at a distance of 1.2 mm from the lensassembly and at the second position the sensor device may be at adistance of 2.2 mm from the lens assembly. At the first position thesensor device may be at a distance of 1 mm from the lens assembly and atthe second position the sensor device may be at a distance of 1.3 mmfrom the lens assembly. The sensor device may be moved from the firstposition to the second position in incremental steps of 0.01 mm.Optionally, said imaging system has a plurality of levels ofmagnification capability.

The imaging optical system may be used in a medical probe such as anendoscope. Optionally, said tube is manufactured using fiber material orplastic. Optionally, said first hub and said second hub are in an airtight configuration with the corresponding cylindrical units.Optionally, the magnification control system comprises a firstcylindrical unit coupled to a first hub and a second cylindrical unitcoupled to a piston based controller, wherein the two cylindrical unitsare connected through a tube and wherein the first hub is coupled to thesensor device. Optionally, said piston based controller comprises apiston coupled to a control switch through a connecting rod and aspring.

The present specification also discloses an imaging optical systemcomprising: an objective lens assembly, wherein said objective lensassembly comprises a plurality of objective lenses; a sensor deviceconfigured for receiving the images formed by said objective lensassembly; and, a magnification control system coupled to said sensordevice comprising a first cylindrical unit coupled to a first hub and asecond cylindrical unit coupled to a second hub, wherein the twocylindrical units are connected through an air-tight tube, wherein thefirst hub is coupled to the sensor device and the second hub is coupledto a user control unit, and wherein movement of the second hubtranslates into movement of the first hub and sensor device through achange in air pressure in the air-tight tube.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope with an imagingoptical system comprising: an objective lens assembly, wherein saidobjective lens assembly comprises a plurality of objective lenses; asensor device configured for receiving the images formed by saidplurality of objective lens; and, a magnification control system coupledto said sensor device such that the magnification control system enablesthe movement of sensor device relative to the position of said pluralityof objective lens to provide different levels of magnificationcapability.

Optionally, the magnification control system comprises a firstcylindrical unit coupled to a first hub and a second cylindrical unitcoupled to a second hub, wherein the two cylindrical units are connectedthrough a tube and wherein the first hub is coupled to the sensor deviceand the second hub is coupled to a user control unit. Optionally, saidplurality of objective lens and said sensor device are located in a tipsection of an insertion tube of said endoscope. Optionally, said firstcylindrical unit and said first hub are located in a tip section of aninsertion tube and said second cylindrical unit and said second hub arelocated in a handle portion of the endoscope. Optionally, the twocylindrical units along with the tube comprise an air tight closedsystem.

Optionally, the first hub is coupled to the sensor device through aprinted circuit board which is located on a horizontal portion of thesensor device. Optionally, when pressure is applied through the usercontrol unit, the second hub moves, wherein movement of the second hubtranslates into a corresponding movement of first hub and the sensordevice coupled to the first hub. Optionally, a space between the twocylindrical units and the tube is filled with a fluid such as water,oil, alcohol, air. Optionally, said endoscope has two levels ofmagnification capability, a regular magnification stage in which thesensor device is located in a first position and an enhancedmagnification stage in which is sensor device is positioned in a secondposition such that the second position is further from the objectivelens than the first position.

Optionally, said tube is manufactured using fiber-optic material orplastic. Optionally, said first hub and said second hub are in an airtight configuration with the corresponding cylindrical units.Optionally, the magnification control system comprises a firstcylindrical unit coupled to a first hub and a second cylindrical unitcoupled to a piston based controller, wherein the two cylindrical unitsare connected through a tube and wherein the first hub is coupled to thesensor device. Optionally, said piston based controller comprises apiston coupled to a control switch through a connecting rod and aspring.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope with dynamic imagemagnification capability comprising: a distal tip section comprising aplurality of objective lenses, a sensor device configured for receivingthe images formed by said plurality of objective lenses, and at leastone dynamic connector coupling the sensor device to a circuit board andfacilitating the movement of sensor device across a plurality ofpredefined positions by accordingly adjusting its own position; and amagnification control system coupled to said sensor device enabling amovement of sensor device relative to a position of said objectivelenses to provide varying levels of magnification capability saidmagnification control system comprising a first cylindrical unit coupledto a first hub located in the distal tip section and a secondcylindrical unit coupled to a second hub located in a control handleportion of the endoscope wherein the first and second cylindrical unitsare connected through an air-tight tube, having a first level of airpressure, running through an insertion tube section of the endoscope andwherein said first hub is coupled to said sensor device and the secondhub is coupled to a user control system. Optionally, said dynamicconnector comprises a curved bended structure. Optionally, said sensordevice comprises a vertical portion, a first horizontal portion and asecond horizontal portion.

Optionally, said first horizontal portion comprises a first housing toaccommodate the movement of a first dynamic connector across a pluralityof predefined positions and said second horizontal portion comprises asecond housing to accommodate the movement of a second dynamic portionacross a plurality of predefined positions.

The present specification also discloses an endoscope with dynamic imagemagnification capability comprising: a distal tip section comprising aplurality of objective lenses, a sensor device configured for receivingthe images formed by said plurality of objective lenses, and at leastone dynamic connector coupling the sensor device to a circuit board andfacilitating the movement of sensor device across a plurality ofpredefined positions by accordingly adjusting its own position; and, amagnification control system coupled to said sensor device enabling themovement of sensor device relative to the position of said objectivelenses to provide varying levels of magnification capability saidmagnification control system comprising a first cylindrical unit coupledto a hub located in the distal tip section and a second cylindrical unitcoupled to a piston controller located in a control handle portion ofthe endoscope wherein the two cylindrical units are connected through atube running through an insertion tube section of the endoscope andwherein said hub is coupled to said sensor device and said pistoncontroller comprises a piston coupled to a control switch through aconnecting rod and a spring.

Optionally, said dynamic connector comprises a curved bended structure.Optionally, said sensor device comprises a vertical portion, a firsthorizontal portion and a second horizontal portion. Optionally, saidfirst horizontal portion comprises a first housing to accommodate themovement of a first dynamic connector across a plurality of predefinedpositions and said second horizontal portion comprises a second housingto accommodate the movement of a second dynamic portion across aplurality of predefined positions.

The present specification also discloses a method of operating animaging optical system comprising: an objective lens assembly; a sensordevice configured for receiving the images formed by said objective lensassembly; and, a magnification control system coupled to said sensordevice such that the magnification control system enables the movementof sensor device relative to the position of said objective lensassembly to provide varying levels of magnification capability; themethod comprising: providing input to change existing magnificationlevel; and altering distance between the sensor device and the objectivelens assembly by a predetermined unit in response to the input.Optionally, increasing the distance between the sensor device and theobjective lens assembly by a predetermined unit in response to the inputincreases magnification capability of the imaging system. Optionally,decreasing the distance between the sensor device and the objective lensassembly by a predetermined unit in response to the input decreasesmagnification capability of the imaging system.

The aforementioned and other embodiments of the present shall bedescribed in greater depth in the drawings and detailed descriptionprovided below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will beappreciated, as they become better understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description when considered in connection with theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a view of a multiple viewing elements endoscopysystem, according to some embodiments of the present specification;

FIG. 1B illustrates a block diagram of an imaging system, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 2A illustrates an objective lens assembly, coupled with an imagesensor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a Charged CoupledDevice (CCD) image sensor comprising connections for connecting with acircuit board, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification;

FIG. 2C illustrates the image sensor of FIG. 2A in a second positionrelative to the objective lens assembly;

FIG. 2D illustrates an objective lens assembly, coupled with an imagesensor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 2E illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a Complementary MetalOxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor comprising a glass surfaceconnected with a circuit board, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent specification;

FIG. 2F illustrates the image sensor of FIG. 2D in a second positionrelative to the objective lens assembly;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an endoscopy system with amagnification control system in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent specification;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an endoscopy system with amagnification control system in accordance with another embodiment ofthe present specification;

FIG. 5A illustrates cross-section of a side view of a distal end of anendoscopy system comprising a magnification control system, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5B illustrates cross-section of another side view of a distal endof an endoscopy system comprising a magnification control system, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5C illustrates a base board for coupling with the distal end of theendoscopy systems of FIGS. 5A and 5B;

FIG. 5D illustrates a detailed plan view of a control handle portion ofan endoscopy system comprising a magnification control system, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present specification;

FIG. 5E illustrates a detailed plan view of a magnification controlsystem located within a control handle portion of an endoscope, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present specification; and

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of using an endoscope devicecomprising a magnification control system, in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present specification is directed towards a system for enablingdynamic image magnification in optical imaging devices which are used inhigh performance and critical applications, such as medical procedures.Physicians often require a very close view of the internal anatomy whileconducting invasive medical procedures. However, the size of devicesused in medical procedures, especially invasive endoscopic procedures,is very small and hence it is very difficult to provide dynamic imagemagnification capability in such devices.

Usually, in any imaging apparatus, image magnification is achievedeither through the movement of the complete objective lens assembly orthrough the relative motion between separate groups of lenses comprisingthe objective lens assembly. In an endoscopic device, it is usually notpossible or practical to move the complete objective lens assembly asthe barrel surrounding the lens assembly is fixed within the endoscopehousing for providing a tight seal. Further, because of the miniaturesize of such devices, providing activators for enabling movement ofseparate lens' groups of the lens assembly is very complicated and noteasy to implement.

In an embodiment, the present specification is directed towards animaging system comprising a lens assembly and a sensor which can bemoved relative to the lens assembly. In an embodiment, the movementbetween the lens assembly and sensor is employed to achieve dynamicimage magnification or optical zoom.

In embodiments, the present specification relates to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/882,004, entitled “Optical Systems forMulti-Sensor Endoscopes” and filed on Apr. 26, 2013. In embodiments, thepresent specification relates to U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/051,834, entitled “Optical System for An Endoscope” and filed on Feb.24, 2016. The above-mentioned applications are incorporated by referenceherein in their entirety.

In an embodiment, the present specification is directed towards anendoscope system comprising an optical lens assembly and a sensor devicewherein based upon at least one user instruction to zoom an image, thesensor device is moved relative to the objective lens assembly toprovide image magnification. In an embodiment, the sensor device ismoved farther from the objective lens assembly to provide imagemagnification. In other embodiments, using different optical lenses, thesensor device is moved closer relative to the objective lens assembly toprovide image magnification.

In an embodiment, the present specification describes an endoscopydevice comprising a magnification control system coupled to an imagesensor for controlling the position of the image sensor relative to theobjective lens assembly based on the level of image magnification (orzoom) required by a user.

In an embodiment, the position of the image sensor device can be changedincrementally to enable multiple levels of image magnification. Inanother embodiment, the present specification describes an endoscopedevice with a two-stage magnification capability wherein in a first orstandard magnification stage, the image sensor device is in a first ornormal position and in a second magnification stage, and the sensordevice is in a second position which is further from the objective lensassembly, magnifying the view.

The present specification is directed towards multiple embodiments. Thefollowing disclosure is provided in order to enable a person havingordinary skill in the art to practice the invention. Language used inthis specification should not be interpreted as a general disavowal ofany one specific embodiment or used to limit the claims beyond themeaning of the terms used therein. The general principles defined hereinmay be applied to other embodiments and applications without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. Also, the terminology andphraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodimentsand should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is tobe accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives,modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles andfeatures disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating totechnical material that is known in the technical fields related to theinvention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarilyobscure the present invention.

Image capturing devices may be Charged Coupled Devices (CCD's) orComplementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors, or othersuitable devices having a light sensitive surface usable for capturingan image. In some embodiments, a sensor such as a Charge Coupled Device(CCD) or a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor(for detecting the reflected light received by an optical element), isemployed.

As used in the specification, the term “optical assembly” is used todescribe a set of components that allows the endoscopic device tocapture light and transform that light into at least one image. In someembodiments, lenses/optical elements are employed to capture light andimage capturing devices, such as sensors, are employed to transform thatlight into data representative of at least one image. In someembodiments, an optical element comprises a plurality of optics such aslens assemblies, lenses and protective glass, and is configured toreceive reflected light from target objects.

An optical assembly, as used in the specification, comprises at leastone lens assembly, its associated sensor(s), and its associated circuitboard. In some embodiments, an “optical assembly” may comprise more thanone viewing element or camera, associated sensor(s), and associatedcircuit board(s). In some embodiments, an “optical assembly” maycomprise a front viewing element, its associated sensor, and itsassociated circuit board. In some embodiments, an “optical assembly” maycomprise a front viewing element, its associated sensors, and itsassociated circuit board and/or at least one side viewing element, itsassociated sensors and its associated circuit boards. Further, theoptical assembly typically is associated with at least one illuminatorfor illuminating the field of view. Thus, for example, a front-pointingoptical assembly includes a front-pointing viewing element with a sensorand a circuit board and is associated with at least one illuminator.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1A, which shows a multiple viewingelements endoscopy system 100. System 100 may include a multiple viewingelements endoscope 102. Multiple viewing elements endoscope 102 mayinclude a handle 104, from which an elongated shaft 106 emerges.Elongated shaft 106 terminates with a tip section 108 which is turnableby way of a bending section 110. Handle 104 may be used for maneuveringelongated shaft 106 within a body cavity. The handle 104 may include oneor more buttons and/or knobs and/or switches 105 which control bendingsection 110 as well as functions such as fluid injection and suction.Handle 104 may further include at least one, and in some embodiments,one or more working channel openings 112 through which surgical toolsmay be inserted.

A utility cable 114, also referred to as an umbilical tube, may connectbetween handle 104 and a main control unit 199. Utility cable 114 mayinclude therein one or more fluid channels and one or more electricalchannels. The electrical channel(s) may include at least one data cablefor receiving video signals from the front and side-pointing viewingelements, as well as at least one power cable for providing electricalpower to the viewing elements and to the discrete illuminators.

The main control unit 199 contains the controls required for displayingthe images of internal organs captured by the endoscope 102. The maincontrol unit 199 may govern power transmission to the endoscope's 102tip section 108, such as for the tip section's viewing elements andilluminators. The main control unit 199 may further control one or morefluid, liquid and/or suction pump(s) which supply correspondingfunctionalities to the endoscope 102. One or more input devices 118,such as a keyboard, a touch screen and the like may be connected to themain control unit 199 for the purpose of human interaction with the maincontrol unit 199. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the main controlunit 199 is connected to a screen/display 120 for displaying operationinformation concerning an endoscopy procedure when the endoscope 102 isin use. The screen 120 may be configured to display images and/or videostreams received from the viewing elements of the multiple viewingelements endoscope 102. The screen 120 may further be operative todisplay a user interface for allowing a human operator to set variousfeatures of the endoscopy system.

Optionally, the video streams received from the different viewingelements of the multiple viewing elements endoscope 102 may be displayedseparately on at least one monitor/screen 120 by uploading informationfrom the main control unit 199, either side-by-side or interchangeably(namely, the operator may switch between views from the differentviewing elements manually). Alternatively, these video streams may beprocessed by the main control unit 199 to combine them into a single,panoramic video frame, based on an overlap between fields of view of theviewing elements. In an embodiment, two or more displays may beconnected to the main control unit 199, each for displaying a videostream from a different viewing element of the multiple viewing elementsendoscope 102.

FIG. 1B is a block diagram of an imaging system in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification. As shown in FIG. 1B, imagingsystem 150 comprises a lens assembly 151, which includes at least onelens, and preferably a plurality of lenses. Lens assembly 151 is coupledto a sensor device or image sensor 152. In an embodiment, the sensordevice 152 comprises an image capture device such as a CCD(charge-coupled device) which receives light radiation through the lensassembly 151 and captures the corresponding image information. In otherembodiments, other image capture devices such as Complementary MetalOxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensors may also be used. An imaging systemcomprising a CMOS sensor is illustrated in FIG. 2C. In an embodiment,the sensor device 152 is coupled to a magnification control system 153.The magnification control system 153 controls the magnificationcapability of the imaging system 150 based upon at least one userinstruction.

In an embodiment, the magnification control system 153 controls theposition of sensor device 152 such that sensor device 152 is movedrelative to the plurality of lenses or lens assembly 151 to change themagnification of the imaging system 150. In an embodiment, sensor device152 can be moved incrementally away from objective lens assembly 151 tomagnify the image at varying incremental levels. One of ordinary skillin the art would appreciate that the distance by which a sensor deviceis moved relative to the objective lens assembly can be configured asper the magnification requirement. In various embodiments, the sensordevice is configured to move in increments ranging from 0.1 mm to 1.0 mmand is adapted to move from a first position to a second position suchthat the distance between the lens assembly 151 and the sensor device152 ranges from 0.07 mm to 1.7 mm in the first position and from 1.8 mmto 2.7 mm in the second position. In an embodiment, the sensor device isconfigured to move in increments ranging from 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm and isadapted to move such that the distance between lens assembly 151 andsensor device 152 ranges from 0.01 mm to 1.0 mm. In one embodiment, achange in distance results in a linear change in magnification; forexample, a distance of 0.2 mm results in a 2× change in magnification.In another embodiment, changes in distance results in a non-linearchange in magnification.

In some embodiments, the movement of sensor device 152 is from a firstposition to a second position such that when sensor device 152 is in afirst or standard position the imaging system 150 provides regular ornormal (1X) magnification power (such as would be provided with the lensassembly 151 and sensor device without the use of the magnificationcontrol system 153) and when the sensor device 152 is in a secondposition, which is proximally away from, inward from, or otherwise at agreater distance from the objective lens assembly 151, the imagingsystem 150 provides enhanced magnification power. In embodiments, adistance between the lens assembly 151 and the first position of thesensor device 152 is in a range of 0.01 mm to 1.7 mm whereas a distancebetween the lens assembly 151 and the second/farthest position of thesensor device 152 is 1.8 mm to 2.7 mm, with other positions beingbetween 0.01 mm and 1 mm and all increments therein.

One of ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that there may bemultiple ways to control the movement of sensor device 152. In anembodiment, the magnification control system 153 comprises an electricalmotor based system coupled to the sensor device 152 which controls theposition of the sensor device 152. In another embodiment, themagnification control system 153 comprises a mechanical system which isused to control the movement of sensor device 152.

In an embodiment, the sensor device 152 is coupled to an imageprocessing system which is used to process the image informationcaptured by the sensor device 152 and display it on a screen for userviewing.

FIG. 2A illustrates an objective lens assembly, coupled with an imagesensor or sensor device, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification. As shown in FIG. 2A, the objective lens assembly 201,comprising at least one lens, is coupled to sensor device 202 such thatsensor device 202 is adapted to receive and capture images formed by theobjective lens assembly 201. In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 2A,sensor device 202 comprises a solid state image pick up device such as acharge-coupled device (CCD). In another embodiment, as described withrespect to FIG. 2C below, the sensor device 252 comprises a solid stateimage pick up device such as a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor(CMOS) image sensor or other suitable device having a light sensitivesurface usable for capturing an image.

Referring back to FIG. 2A, the lens assembly 201 comprises a lens holder213, which in an embodiment, is rectangular and has a distal wall 213 a,a first side wall 213 c, a second opposing side wall (not visible inFIG. 2A), a top wall 213 d and an opposing bottom wall (not visible inFIG. 2A); and a cylindrical portion 210 protruding distally from thedistal wall 213 a. Lens holder 213 comprises one or more lensespositioned therein.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the sensor device 202 comprises avertical portion 202 a, arranged perpendicularly to a first horizontalportion 202 b and a second horizontal portion 202 c. The first andsecond horizontal portions 202 b, 202 c are parallel and are separatedby a distance equal to the length of the vertical portion 202 a as shownin FIG. 2A wherein the first horizontal portion 202 b and secondhorizontal portion 202 c serve as image sensor contact areas.

In an embodiment, vertical portion 202 a includes an inner glass surfacewhich is closely associated with a proximal wall 213 b of lens holder213. Also, the first and second horizontal portions 202 b, 202 c areclosely associated with the top wall 213 d and the bottom wall of thelens assembly 201, respectively, such that the sensor device 202envelops the lens holder portion 213 of the lens assembly 201 on threesides, as shown in FIG. 2A. In the assembled position as shown in FIG.2A, lens assembly 201 includes a plurality of objective lenses that arepositioned inside the lens holder 213. In an embodiment, the cylindricalportion 210 of the lens assembly 201 projects in a distal directionextending beyond the area defined by the image sensor contact areas 202b and 202 c.

In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 2A, each of the horizontal sections202 b and 202 c are coupled at their respective first ends to verticalportion 202 a and are coupled, at their second ends, with folded over orbent portions 203 b and 203 c, respectively, which facilitate themovement of the sensor device 202 relative to lens assembly 201. In anembodiment, second ends of horizontal sections 202 b, 202 c are coupledwith folded over portions 203 b, 203 c respectively in such a mannerthat the folded over portions are movable with respect to the horizontalsections 202 b, 202 c. In embodiments, the position of folded overportion 203 b may be arranged such that the folded over portion 203 bprotrudes distally beyond the second end of horizontal section 202 beither entirely or partially. Similarly, the position of folded overportion 203 c may be arranged such that the folded over portion 203 cprotrudes distally beyond the second end of horizontal section 202 ceither entirely or partially. In other embodiments, the folded overportions 203 b and 203 c are respectively connected to connectingportions 216 b and 216 c which connect the sensor device 202 to theprinted circuit boards of the endoscope device.

The folded over portions 203 b and 203 c of the image sensor 202 reducethe length of space occupied by the lens assembly 201 and sensor device202 on a circuit board placed in an endoscope tip, thereby enablingadditional optical assemblies to be placed closer to each other thanwould have been possible with conventional methods of folding the imagesensor. This reduces the distance between additional optical assemblies,which in turn, causes them to occupy approximately 1.3 mm less space onthe endoscope circuit board, thereby leading to the diameter of theendoscope tip being reduced.

In some embodiments, the present specification relates to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/469,481, entitled “Circuit Board Assembly of AMultiple Viewing Elements Endoscope”, filed on Aug. 26, 2014. In someembodiments, the present specification relates to U.S. PatentProvisional Application No. 62/299,332, entitled “Circuit Board Assemblyof a Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope Using CMOS Sensors”, and filed onFeb. 24, 2016. The above-mentioned applications are herein incorporatedby reference in their entirety.

One of ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that there may bemultiple ways to structure the bent or folded over portions 203 b and203 c without departing from the spirit and scope of presentspecification. In an embodiment, the folded over dynamic portions 203 band 203 c are structured such that they comprise a curved bent portioncoupled to two flat portions on either side. As shown in FIG. 2A, thefolded over dynamic portion 203 b comprises a first flat portion 211 awhich is coupled to the second end of image sensor contact area 202 b onone side and to a curved bent portion 211 c on the other side. Thecurved portion 211 c is in turn connected to a second flat portion 211 bwhich is coupled with the connecting portion 216 b which couples thesensor device with the circuit board. In an embodiment, connectingportion 216 b is welded to the circuit board. Similarly, the folded overdynamic portion 203 c comprises a first flat portion 212 a which iscoupled to the second end of image sensor contact area 202 c on one sideand to a curved bent portion 212 c on the other side. The curved portion212 c is in turn connected to a second flat portion 212 b which iscoupled with the connecting portion 216 c which couples the sensordevice with the circuit board. In an embodiment, connecting portion 216c is welded to the circuit board. In an embodiment, each complete foldedover dynamic portion 203 b, 203 c comprising first and second flatportions 211 a, 211 b, 212 a, 212 b, and curved portions 211 c, 212 cand the respective connecting portions 216 b, 216 c are manufactured inthe form of a unitary structure. Further, the folded over dynamicportions 203 b and 203 c are configured to allow electrical couplingbetween the image sensor contact areas 202 b, 202 c and the circuitboard. In an embodiment, the folded over dynamic portions 203 b and 203c comprise embedded electrical wires that connect the image sensorcontact areas 202 b and 202 c with the circuit board.

In some embodiments, sensor 202 also comprises connector strips 217 a,217 b that extend from the first ends of horizontal sections 202 b, 202c to their second ends respectively. The connector strips 217 a, 217 binclude openings configured to allow the flat portions 211 a, 212 a ofthe folded over dynamic portions 203 b and 203 c to move proximally anddistally through the respective connector strips 217 a, 217 b as thesensor 202 is moved relative to the lens assembly 201. FIG. 2Billustrates an exemplary block diagram of a CCD image sensor comprisingconnections for connecting with a circuit board, in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification. Sensor 202 comprises connectorstrips 217 a and 217 b extending on either sides of sensor 202.Connector strip 217 a enables movement of the sensor 202 as dynamicportion 203 b folds and moves through connector strip 217 a relative tofixed connecting portion 216 b. Similarly, connector strip 217 b enablesmovement of the sensor 202 as dynamic portion 203 c folds and movesthrough connector strip 217 b relative to fixed connecting portion 216c. Connecting portions 216 b, 216 c are connected to circuit board 280by any suitable process, such as but not limited to, welding.

One of ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that a variety ofmaterials can be used to manufacture the composite structure asillustrated here. Referring again to FIG. 2A, the composite structurecomprising vertical wall 203A and dynamic portions 203 b and 203 cenable the movement of the sensor device 202 along an axis of theobjective lens assembly 201.

In an embodiment, the sensor device 202 is coupled to a magnificationcontrol system which controls the position of the sensor device 202 suchthat the magnification power of the objective lens assembly 201 can bedynamically modified through movement of the sensor device 202 relativeto the objective lens assembly 201. In an embodiment, the sensor device202 is configured such that it can be moved proximally from a firstposition being closest to the objective lens assembly 201 to a secondposition at a distance farther from the objective lens assembly 201 anda plurality of incremental positions therebetween. In an embodiment,each of the horizontal sections 202 b and 202 c of the sensor device 202are configured such that they comprise folded over dynamic portions 203b and 203 c respectively, as described earlier, which facilitate themovement of the sensor device 202 between the positions.

In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 2A, in a first position the foldedover dynamic portion 203 b protrudes completely and distally outside theconnector strip 217 a and folded over dynamic portion 203 c protrudescompletely and distally outside the connector strip 217 b, therebybringing the sensor 202 closest to the objective lens assembly 201. FIG.2C illustrates the image sensor 202 of FIG. 2A in a second positionrelative to the objective lens assembly 201. In the second position, thefolded over dynamic portions 203 b and 203 c are positioned within orare retracted into connector strips 217 a, 217 b respectively, i.e. thefolded over portions 203 b and 203 c protrude out only partially beyondthe distal ends of connector strips 217 a, 217 b respectively, therebytaking the sensor 202 farthest away from the objective lens assembly201. In the second position, the first flat portions 211 a, 212 a of thefolded over dynamic portions 203 b and 203 c have moved proximallythrough the connector strips 217 a, 217 b relative to said connectorstrips 217 a, 217 b and connecting portions 216 b, 216 c. When movingthe sensor 202 from the first position, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, tothe second position, relative to the lens assembly 201, the sensor 202,vertical portion 202 a, first flat portions 211 a, 212 a, and curvedportions 211 c, 212 c all move in a proximal direction relative to theconnector strips 217 a, 217 b, connecting portions 216 b, 216 c, andlens holder 213 and cylindrical portion 210 of the lens assembly 201,all of which are fixed. The first flat portions 211 a, 212 a bound,above and below respectively, a space 228 between the sensor 202 andlens assembly 201. In addition, when moving the sensor 202 from thefirst position, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, to the second position,relative to the lens assembly 201, the second flat portions 211 b, 212 bmoved inwardly, toward the lens holder 213, to facilitate movement ofthe curved portions 211 c, 212 c into the connector strips 217 a, 217 b.In an embodiment, in the second position, the sensor device 202 ispositioned further from the objective lens assembly 201 compared to therelative distance between the sensor device and objective lens assemblyin the first position and hence the image magnification power of thedevice is higher in the second position as compared to the magnificationpower in first position. By controlling the distance between the sensordevice 202 and the objective lens assembly 201, the system of thepresent specification allows dynamic change in image magnification powerof the device. In an embodiment, the magnification power of the devicecan be increased by a power of 2× by moving the sensor device from afirst position to a second position as described above. In anembodiment, the movement of the sensor device 202 is facilitated by apressure controlled system as described below.

In various embodiments, the sensor device can be structured to enablemovement incrementally across multiple positions to achieve multiplelevels of magnification power. In some embodiments, the movement of thesensor device 202 relative to the lens assembly 201 ranges from 0.01 to1.7 mm in the first position to 1.8 to 2.7 mm in the second position inincrements of 0.01 mm or greater. The movement and user operations aredescribed below with respect to FIGS. 5C and 5D.

FIG. 2D illustrates an alternate embodiment of the objective lensassembly, coupled with an image sensor wherein the sensor devicecomprises a solid state image pick up device such as a ComplementaryMetal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor or other suitable devicehaving a light sensitive surface usable for capturing an image. As shownin FIG. 2D, the objective lens assembly 251, comprising at least onelens, is positioned proximate sensor device 252 such that sensor device252 is adapted to receive and capture the images formed by the objectivelens assembly 251. In an embodiment, the sensor device 252 comprises avertical portion 252 a having a proximal face 252 x and a distal face252 y positioned proximate a proximal end 251 x of cylindrical lensassembly 251. In an embodiment, distal face 252 y comprises an innerglass surface 255 which is associated with proximal end of cylindricallens assembly 251. In the objective lens assembly shown in FIG. 2D, inan embodiment, the sensor device 252 comprises flexible CMOS pins 260which are coupled via their distal ends to the proximal face 252 x ofvertical portion 252 a of the sensor device 252. The proximal ends ofthe CMOS pins 260 are attached to a circuit board 262 of the endoscope.The CMOS pins 260 are configured as flexible pins such that they allowthe dynamic movement of sensor device 252, relative to the stationarylens assembly 251, to control the magnification power of device. As thesensor device 252 is moved along an axis of the objective lens assembly(through a magnification control system which is discussed in thesubsequent sections) to modify the magnification power of the opticaldevice, the flexible pins 260 allow the movement of sensor device 252without snapping the connection between the pins 260 and sensor device202 or the connection between the pins 260 and the endoscope circuitboard 262. In an embodiment, the distance 254 represents the distancerange of the dynamic movement of the sensor device 252 relative to theobjective lens assembly 251.

FIG. 2E illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a CMOS image sensorcomprising a glass surface connected with a circuit chip, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present specification. CMOS sensor 252comprises a glass surface 255 having a distal face 252 y which faces theproximal end of cylindrical lens assembly 251, as shown in FIG. 2D; anda proximal face 252 x comprising a sensor chip 280.

FIG. 2F illustrates the image sensor 252 of FIG. 2D in a second positionrelative to the objective lens assembly 251. The image sensor 252 hasbeen moved proximally such that it is farther away from the opticalassembly 251 but closer to the circuit board 262. The flexible pins 260can be seen in a more compressed configuration relative to the moreextended configuration of the pins 260 depicted in FIG. 2D. Theflexibility of the pins 260 allows the sensor 252 to be moved relativeto the lens assembly 251 to adjust magnification and relative to thecircuit board 262 without damaging the pins 260.

One of ordinary skill in the art could appreciate that the relativedistances and the magnification power mentioned in the embodimentsdescribed in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E and 2F are for illustrationpurposes only and do not limit the specification described here in anyway. The relative distance between the sensor device and lens assemblycan be controlled to achieve multiple levels of magnification power asper the system requirement.

FIG. 3 illustrates an endoscopy system comprising a magnificationcontrol system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentspecification. As shown in FIG. 3, the endoscopy system 300 comprises afirst section 310 coupled to a second section 320 via a third section330. In an embodiment, first section 310 corresponds to a distal tip ofan endoscope, attached to a distal end of an insertion tube, whichincludes at least one objective lens assembly. The second section 320corresponds to the control handle section of an endoscope device whichincludes the controls required to operate the device. In an embodiment,third section 330 is a magnification control system which isincorporated within the insertion tube portion connecting the distal endof the endoscope device with its control handle section.

First section 310, in an embodiment, comprises the imaging system, shownand described with respect to FIG. 1B, that includes a plurality oflenses 301 and a sensor device 302 adapted to capture the imaginginformation. In an embodiment, the sensor device 302 is a charge coupleddevice (CCD) or Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) or othersimilar kind of solid state device known in the art for capturing andstoring image information received through the objective lens assembly301. The sensor device 302 is coupled to the magnification controlsystem 330.

In an embodiment of the present specification, the magnification controlsystem 330 comprises a tube 305 having cylindrical portions 304 a and304 b at each end. In alternate embodiments, the portions 304 a and 304b can be configured in other shapes which can be adapted to containliquid and/or gas. A first hub 303 a is connected to cylindrical portion304 a while a second hub 303 b is connected to cylindrical unit 304 b.In an embodiment, the connection between hubs 303 a and 303 b andcylindrical portions 304 a and 304 b, respectively, is air tight. Thus,magnification control unit 330 is an air tight system, thereby allowinga change in pressure in one end of the tube 305 to be communicated tothe other end of the tube. In an embodiment, tube 305 is manufacturedusing a flexible fiber or plastic material. In an embodiment, each ofthe hubs 303 a and 303 b comprise a piston.

In an embodiment, distal end 330 a of the magnification control system330, comprising the cylindrical unit 304 a and hub 303 a, is physicallyor electrically coupled to sensor device 302. Proximal end 330 b ofmagnification control system 330, which comprises the cylindrical unit304 b and hub 303 b is coupled to a control unit 306 through which auser can control the operation of magnification control unit 330. In anembodiment, the control unit 306 comprises the control section in thehandle portion of a typical endoscope device, as described above, andalso includes the control buttons required to operate the magnificationcontrol system 330.

One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there could bemultiple ways to couple the sensor device 302 with the hub 303 a. In anembodiment of the present specification, the hub 303 a is coupled to thesensor device 302 through a mechanical system such as a control wire. Inanother embodiment, the hub 303 a is coupled to the sensor device 302using an electrical control system. In an embodiment, the hub 303 a iscoupled to the sensor device 302 through a printed circuit board locatedon the back side of the sensor device 302.

In an embodiment, a user can control the magnification power of theendoscopy system 300 by changing the position of the sensor device 302which is coupled to the magnification control unit 330 as describedabove. In an embodiment, on receiving an input from control unit 306,hub 303 b, located on the proximal end 330 b of the magnificationcontrol system 330, is pushed distally into the cylindrical unit 304 b.As the magnification control unit 330 comprising the cylindrical units304 a, 304 b and the tube 305 is an air tight system, movement in adistal direction (shown by arrow 311) of hub 303 b exerts air pressureon the hub 303 a located at the distal end 330 a of the magnificationcontrol system 330, which is also pushed in the distal direction 311.The hub 303 a is coupled to the sensor device 302 in a manner such thatany movement in distal direction 311 of the hub 303 a is translated in acorresponding movement in distal direction 311 of sensor device 302. Themovement of the sensor device 302 closer to the objective lens assembly301 leads to a decrease in the magnification power of the endoscopesystem 300. Conversely, any movement of hub 303 b in a proximaldirection (shown by arrow 312) would lead to movement of the sensordevice 302 away from the objective lens assembly 301 and result in anincrease in magnification.

In another embodiment, the hub 303 a is coupled to distal cylindricalunit 304 a such that any pushing movement of hub 303 b in a distaldirection 311 is translated to a pulling movement on hub 303 a in aproximal direction 312 as explained with reference to FIG. 4 insubsequent sections of the present specification. Since hub 303 a iscoupled to the sensor device 302 such that movement of hub 303 a resultsin movement of sensor device 302 in the same direction, in thisembodiment, a pushing movement on hub 303 b in a distal direction 311leads to a pulling movement of the sensor device 302 in a proximaldirection 312 away from the optical assembly 301 and results in anincrease in magnification. Conversely, in this embodiment, any movementof hub 303 b in a proximal direction 312 leads to movement of the sensordevice 302 toward the objective lens assembly 301 and results in adecrease in magnification.

In an embodiment a processor in the control unit 306 generates a signal(in response to a user input) adapted to cause the hub 303 b to move apredefined distance. The generated signal is communicated to amotor/actuator device (not shown in the figures) that is physicallycoupled to the hub 303 b and causes the movement of the hub 303 bFurther, in an embodiment, the hub 303 b is a planar structurevertically positioned within the tube 305 and covering the entirety ofthe tube area such that no air can pass from the volume positionedbetween the hubs 303 b and 303 a to an area beyond the hubs. Themotor/actuator device causes the hubs 303 b and 303 a to move eitherproximally or distally depending on the signal received. In anembodiment, the hubs 303 b and 303 a are planar or curved structuresthat are sized to fit within, and completely encompass the internal areaof, the tube 305, thereby creating an air tight fit. In one embodiment,the hubs are placed in a friction-fit relation to the tube, therebypermitting them to move upon application of a force.

In various embodiments, the hub 303 b is moved relative to thecylindrical unit 304 b by an incremental distance ranging from 0.01 mmto 0.2 mm over a total distance ranging from 0.01 mm to 1.0 mm and,correspondingly, the hub 303 a is moved relative to the cylindrical unit304 a by an incremental distance ranging from 0.01 mm to 0.2 mm over atotal distance ranging from 0.01 mm to 1.0 mm.

In embodiments, in a first position the sensor device is placed at adistance ranging from 0.07 mm to 1.7 mm from the lens assembly and whenthe sensor is moved away from the lens assembly to a second position,the distance of the second position from the lens assembly ranges from1.8 mm to 2.7 mm.

In an embodiment with relatively lower dynamic magnification capability,the optical assembly is configured such that in an initial position thesensor device is placed at a distance of approximately 1.0 mm from thelens assembly and when the sensor device is moved away from the lensassembly it is moved to a maximum distance of 1.3 mm away from the lensassembly. The movement of sensor device from 1.0 mm distance to 1.3 mmdistance can be in a single step or in incremental steps having adistance as low as 0.01 mm.

In an alternative embodiment with relatively higher dynamicmagnification capability, the optical assembly is configured such thatin an initial position the sensor device is placed at a distance ofapproximately 1.2 mm from the lens assembly and when the sensor deviceis moved away from the lens assembly it is moved to a maximum distanceof 2.2 mm away from the lens assembly. The movement of sensor devicefrom 1.2 mm distance to 2.2 mm distance can be in a single step or inincremental steps having a distance as low as 0.01 mm.

In an embodiment, the optical assembly is configured such that relativemovement of sensor device by approximately 0.2 mm distance with respectto the position of the lens assembly leads to a change in magnificationfactor of approximately 2×. For example, in one embodiment, at a first‘default’ view or magnification, the sensor is placed at a firstposition approximately 1.2 mm from the lens assembly. At a second,‘magnified’ view or magnification, the sensor is moved to a secondposition which is approximately 1.4 mm from the lens assembly, or 0.2 mmfurther from the lens assembly than the first position. At said seconddistance of 1.4 mm, the magnification is increased by a factor of 2×. Invarious embodiments, the change in magnification power is not linear andis dependent upon the initial and final relative positions of the sensordevice and objective lens assembly.

One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there could bemultiple methods of translating the user input received through controlunit 306 into movement of the hub 303 b to practice the presentinvention. In an embodiment, the user input is received through acontrol switch which is coupled to mechanical system such as a controlwire connected to the hub 303 b. As the user changes the position ofcontrol switch, the position of hub 303 b, which is coupled to thecontrol wire is accordingly changed. In another embodiment, the userinput is received through a control button which is coupled to anelectrical system such as a motor which enables the movement of hub 303b.

In an embodiment, the user can reverse the change in magnification level(i.e. increase or decrease the magnification level) of the image byproviding corresponding input from control unit 306. On receiving userinstruction to increase the magnification level, in one embodiment,pressure is exerted on the hub 303 b to withdraw it from the cylindricalunit 304 b in a proximal direction 312. With movement of hub 303 b in aproximal direction 312, since the magnification control unit 330 is anair tight system, there is a pressure differential which exerts pressureon the hub 303 a causing it to retract into cylindrical unit 304 a. Thesensor device 302 is coupled to hub 303 a such that the proximalmovement of the hub 303 a pulls the sensor device away from theobjective lens assembly 301, leading to a dynamic increase in themagnification level of image captured by the optical imaging systemdescribed here. As described above, in other embodiments, hub 303 a canalso be coupled to cylindrical portion 304 a such that movement of hub303 b in a first direction is translated into movement of hub 303 a inthe opposite direction.

In an embodiment, the position of hub 303 a and the corresponding sensordevice 302 can be moved incrementally so that varying levels ofresulting magnification power can be achieved. In another embodiment,the endoscope system 300 comprises only two levels of magnificationpower—regular magnification power and enhanced magnification power.Correspondingly, in such a system, the movement of the hubs 303 a, 303 band the sensor device 302 is restricted between two positions.

FIG. 4 illustrates an endoscopy system comprising a magnificationcontrol system in accordance with another embodiment of the presentspecification. As shown in FIG. 4, the endoscope system 400 comprises afirst section 410 and a second section 420 coupled via a third section430. In an embodiment, the first section 410 corresponds to a portion ofthe tip section of an endoscope device which contains the objective lensassembly 401 and sensor 402. The second section 420 corresponds to thecontrol handle section of an endoscope device which comprises a majorityof the controls required to operate the device. The third section 430comprises the magnification control system which, in an embodiment, ispositioned within the insertion tube portion connecting the distal endof the endoscope device with its control handle section.

The first section 410 comprises the imaging system that includes anobjective lens assembly 401 and a sensor device 402 adapted to capturethe imaging information. In an embodiment of the present specification,the magnification control system 430 comprises a tube 405 havingcylindrical portions 404 a at a first, distal end and 404 b at a second,proximal end.

A hub 403 is connected to cylindrical portion 404 a. The distal end 430a of the magnification control system 430, which includes cylindricalunit 404 a and hub 403, is coupled to the sensor device 402.

The proximal end 430 b of the magnification control system 430, whichincludes cylindrical portion 404 b, is connected to a control mechanism411 that is used to control the magnification power of the system. In anembodiment, the control system 411 coupled to cylindrical portion 404 bcomprises a piston 406 which in turn is coupled to a control button 407through a connector rod member 408. In an embodiment, a spring 409 ispositioned over the connector rod member 408.

In an embodiment, the portion of the system comprising the tube 405having cylindrical portions 404 a at a first, distal end and 404 b at asecond, proximal end is a closed system that is filled with a fluid. Insome embodiments, the fluid may be but is not limited to water oralcohol. To change the magnification power of the endoscope system 400,the user provides a corresponding input through the control button 407.In an embodiment, the user input may be purely mechanical in nature.

In an alternate embodiment, the user input may be provided using anelectrical control system that translates into mechanical movement ofthe piston. The control button 407 converts the user input into apressure, thereby moving piston 406 either towards the distal end 430 a(distally) or towards the proximal end 430 b (proximally). In oneembodiment, hub 403 is coupled to cylindrical portion 404 a in a mannersuch that movement of piston 406 in a first direction results inmovement of hub 403 in a second direction opposite to said firstdirection. Therefore, if piston 406 is pushed distally into thecylindrical unit 404 b, it exerts a pull pressure at the distal end 430a of the magnification control system 430, causing hub 403 to move in aproximal direction. The hub 403, located at the distal end 430 a andcoupled to cylindrical portion 404 a, is coupled to the sensor device402 in a manner such that any movement of the hub 403 is translated intoa corresponding similar movement of sensor device 402. Thus, if piston406 is pushed distally, the hub 403 and consequently the sensor device402 is moved away from the objective lens assembly 401, leading to anincrease in magnification power of the endoscope system 400.

Similarly, when the piston 406 is pulled proximally using control button407, the hub 403 is at least partially extended distally fromcylindrical unit 404 a towards the objective lens assembly 401, leadingto a similar change in position of the sensor device 402. The movementof sensor device 402 closer to the objective lens assembly 401 leads toa reduction in magnification power of the endoscopy system 400.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are side cross sectional views of a distal end of anendoscopy system 500 comprising a magnification control system and FIG.5C is a top view illustrating a base board 515 adapted to support theviewing elements and sensors (thus, optical assemblies) and illuminatorsof the endoscopy system 500 of FIGS. 5A and 5B, in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification. FIG. 5D illustrates a controlhandle portion of an endoscopy system comprising a magnification controlsystem, and FIG. 5E illustrates an enlarged view of the magnificationcontrol system, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentspecification. Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D and 5E together, adistal end 510 of the endoscope system 500 comprises an optical assemblywhich comprises an objective lens assembly 501, a sensor device 502 andprinted circuit boards 515. Metal frame 530 represents an outer portionwhich supports the entire optical assembly. Objective lens assembly 501includes a plurality of objective lenses which are positioned inside alens holder 513. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate thatthe above configuration resembles the basic camera assembly for anendoscope system comprising the objective lens and the sensor device andis well known in the art.

In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 5A, the sensor device 502 comprisesa vertical portion 502 a, a first horizontal portion 502 b and a secondhorizontal portion 502 c, wherein the first horizontal portion 502 b andsecond horizontal portion 502 c serve as image sensor contact areas.Each of the horizontal sections 502 b and 502 c comprise a distal endcoupled with the vertical portion 502 a and a proximal end coupled withfolded over portions 514 b and 514 c respectively, which facilitate themovement of the sensor device 502, relative to lens assembly 501.

In an embodiment, the proximal ends of horizontal sections 502 b, 502 care coupled with folded over portion 514 b, 514 c respectively in such amanner that the folded over portions are movable with respect to thehorizontal sections. As described in an earlier embodiment withreference to FIGS. 2A-2C, each of the image sensor contact areas 502 band 502 c comprise a connector strip on its proximal end for themovement of dynamic portions 514 b, 514 c which enable the movement ofsensor device 502 along the axis of objective lens assembly. The dynamicportions 514 b, 514 c are configured such that they also couple theimage sensor contact areas 502 a and 502 b to the circuit board 515 viaconnection portions 516 b and 516 c respectively.

In another embodiment, referring to FIG. 5B, the sensor 502 includespins 542 which extend in a proximal direction from two opposing sides ofthe sensor 502. First flexible printed circuit board cables 541 connectthe pins 542 to the sensor 502 at a distal end of said cables 541 and toa connection point 545 on a proximal surface 515 p of a first printedcircuit board 515 at a proximal end of said cables 541. Distal ends ofsecond flexible printed circuit board cables 543 are connected to theproximal ends of the first flexible printed circuit board cables 541 atthe connection point. Proximal ends of the second flexible printedcables 543 connect to second printed circuit boards 517. The first andsecond flexible printed circuit board cables 541, 543 allow movement ofthe sensor 502 relative to the objective lens assembly 501, which isfixed in an outer portion 547 of the endoscope by glue 548 between thebarrel 546 of the objective lens assembly and said outer portion 547.Actuation of the magnification control system, through tube 505 and hub503 a, results in movement of the sensor in a proximal direction 549away from the objective lens assembly 501, increasing magnification.Second flexible printed circuit board cables 543 are compressed as thesensor 502 moves in a proximal direction 549, and their flexibilityallows them to move without breaking.

The present specification describes unique systems and methods fordynamically controlling the magnification power of a medical probe, suchas an endoscope, as described in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4. In an embodiment ofpresent specification, referring to FIGS. 5A through 5E, the sensordevice 502 is coupled to a magnification control system 540 whichcomprises two cylindrical portions 504 a and 504 b connected at eitherend of a tube 505. In an embodiment, the cylindrical section 504 a iscoupled to a hub 503 a and cylindrical section 504 b is coupled to a hub503 b. In an embodiment, the hub 503 a is coupled to the sensor 502through an adapter 521. In an embodiment, the hubs 503 a and 503 b serveas air-tight stoppers, creating an air-tight magnification controlsystem. In an embodiment, tube 505 is manufactured using a material suchas fiber or plastic. In an embodiment, the control body or the handlesection 520 comprises a magnification control system 540 which includesa button 507 coupled to the hub 503 b through a connecting portion 508and a spring 509. In an embodiment, a user input via button 507 istranslated into a pressure that causes movement of hub 503 b andconsequently hub 503 a, due to fluid pressure exerted via tube 505, asexplained with respect to FIGS. 3 and 4.

In an embodiment, the user input may be purely mechanical in nature. Inan alternate embodiment, the user input may be provided using anelectrical control system that translates into mechanical movement ofthe piston. The movement of hub 503 a in the either direction enablesthe movement of the sensor 502 in the same direction such that any suchchange in the relative position of sensor 502 with respect to theposition of objective lens assembly 501 leads to a change in themagnification power of endoscope system 500. In an alternate embodiment,the magnification control system 540 is configured such that themovement of hub 503 a in either direction enables the movement of sensor502 in an opposite direction as described in the embodiments in FIG. 3and FIG. 4.

In the specific configuration shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5A, thesensor device 502 is coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB) 515,through dynamic portions 514 b, 514 c which are connected to the printedcircuit board through connection portions 516 b, 516 c. One canappreciate that the dynamic portions 514 b, 514 c correspond to thedynamic portions 203 b and 203 c shown in FIGS. 2A through 2C. In anembodiment, PCB 515 comprises the electronics to control variousfunctionalities in the endoscope system 500.

FIG. 5E is a detailed plan view of a configuration of a magnificationcontrol system 540 located within a handle portion 520 of an endoscopefor implementing dynamic magnification control in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification as also shown in FIG. 4. Asshown in FIG. 5E, the control body or handle section 520 of theendoscope system 500 comprises a magnification control system 540 whichis coupled to the tube 505 as also illustrated in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5D.In an embodiment, as shown in an expanded view, the magnificationcontrol system 540 comprises a control button 507 coupled to a piston506 through connecting rod 508 surrounded by a spring 509. In anembodiment, the button 507 comprises markings (not shown in figure)indicating incremental movement of the sensor device 502 as explained indescription of FIGS. 3, 4, 5A and 5B corresponding to movement/turningof button 507. The markings help a user to move the sensor to a desireddistance away from the lens assembly (being guided by the predefinedincrements marked on the button). In another embodiment, markingscorresponding to incremental movement of the sensor may be provided onthe handle 520, proximate to the button 507, such that movement of thebutton 507 may be guided by said markings to move the sensor by adesired distance.

The piston 506 is enclosed in a cylindrical body 504 b which, in turn,is connected to the cylindrical section 504 a shown in FIG. 5A throughtube 505. In an embodiment, the space between the two cylindrical units504 a, 504 b and the tube 505 is filled with a fluid such as water, oil,alcohol or air. Any pressure exerted through the piston 506 translatesin movement of fluid or air within the closed system which in turnexerts pressure on the hub 503 a leading to movement of the sensordevice 502 as explained in description of FIGS. 3, 4, 5A and 5B.Movement of sensor device 502 relative to the position of objective lensassembly 501 provides dynamic control over the magnification power ofthe endoscope system 500.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of using an endoscope devicecomprising a magnification control system, in accordance with anembodiment of the present specification. The magnification controlsystem is coupled to an image sensor for controlling the position of theimage sensor relative to an objective lens assembly of the endoscopebased on the level of image magnification (or zoom) required by a user.At step 602, the endoscope is used to capture images of required organ.A tip portion of the endoscope comprising the objective lens assembly,image sensor coupled with the magnification control system is insertedwithin a patient's body to obtain images of organs within. The tipsection is controlled by a control system provided in a handle portionof the endoscope, which is connected to the tip section via an umbilicaltube, as explained with reference to FIG. 1A. The control system alsocomprises the magnification control system to which a user input may beprovided via a control located on the handle portion of the endoscope,as explained with reference to FIG. 1B.

At step 604, a user input is provided to increase magnification or zoomin on an image captured by the optical lens assembly. In an embodiment,the user input may be provided through a control switch (such as button507 shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E), which is coupled to mechanical systemsuch as a control wire connected to the magnification control systemcausing an increase or decrease in a distance between the objective lensassembly and the image sensor. In another embodiment, the user input isreceived through a control button which is coupled to an electricalsystem such as a motor which enables the movement of at least a portionof the magnification control system, thereby leading to movement of theimage sensor towards or away from the objective lens assembly.

At step 606, a distance between the image sensor coupled with the lensassembly of the endoscope is increased or decreased by a predeterminedunit in response to the user input. The mechanics enabling movement ofthe image sensor towards or away from the objective lens assembly havebeen explained in the preceding sections with reference to FIGS. 3, 4,and 5A-5E. As explained earlier, increasing the distance between theimage sensor and the objective lens assembly leads to an increase (zoomin) in the magnification of the image captured and decreasing thedistance between the image sensor and the objective lens assembly leadsto a decrease (zoom out) in the magnification of the image captured.

At step 608 it is determined if the magnification achieved issufficient. If further zooming in or out is desired, steps 604 and 606are repeated until desired magnification is obtained.

The above examples are merely illustrative of the many applications ofthe system of present specification. Although only a few embodiments ofthe present invention have been described herein, it should beunderstood that the present invention might be embodied in many otherspecific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of theinvention. Therefore, the present examples and embodiments are to beconsidered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention may bemodified within the scope of the appended claims.

In the description and claims of the application, each of the words“comprise” “include” and “have”, and forms thereof, are not necessarilylimited to members in a list with which the words may be associated.

1-24. (canceled)
 25. An endoscope comprising: a proximal end comprisinga control portion; a distal end comprising a distal tip, wherein saiddistal tip comprises: a lens, a sensor device comprising: a printedcircuit board, an image sensor movably coupled to the printed circuitboard, and a flexible coupling having a first end coupled to the printedcircuit board and a second end coupled to the image sensor toelectrically connect the printed circuit board to the image sensor,wherein the flexible coupling maintains an electrical connection betweenthe printed circuit board and the image sensor as the image sensor movesrelative to the printed circuit board upon actuation of the controlportion.
 26. The endoscope of claim 25, wherein the flexible couplingincludes a first cable, a pin coupled to the first cable, and a secondcable coupled to the pin.
 27. The endoscope of claim 26, wherein thefirst cable is coupled to the image sensor and the second cable iscoupled to the printed circuit board.
 28. The endoscope of claim 25,further comprising a tube configured to move the sensor device, whereinthe tube extends from the sensor device to the control portion.
 29. Theendoscope of claim 28, further comprising: a first cylindrical sectioncoupled to a proximal end of the tube; a second cylindrical sectioncoupled to a distal end of the tube; a first hub positioned within thefirst cylindrical section; and a second hub positioned within the secondcylindrical section.
 30. The endoscope of claim 29, wherein the firsthub and the second hub include air-tight stoppers configured to createan air-tight magnification control system.
 31. The endoscope of claim29, wherein the first hub is coupled to a button through a connectingportion and a spring.
 32. The endoscope of claim 25, wherein the printedcircuit board extends transverse to the image sensor.
 33. The endoscopeof claim 25, further comprising a lens holder and a barrel, wherein thelens is positioned within the barrel, and wherein the barrel extendsinto the lens holder.
 34. The endoscope of claim 25, wherein the printedcircuit board is a first printed circuit board, and the endoscopefurther comprises a second printed circuit board positioned transverseto the first printed circuit board, wherein the flexible couplingincludes an intermediate portion between the first end and the secondend, wherein the intermediate portion is coupled to a proximal-facingsurface of the second printed circuit board, wherein the flexiblecoupling maintains an electrical connection between the first printedcircuit board, the second printed circuit board, and the image sensor asthe image sensor moves relative to the first printed circuit board uponactuation of the control portion.
 35. The endoscope of claim 25, whereinthe lens is positioned within a barrel fixed to an outer portion of theendoscope.
 36. An endoscope comprising: a proximal end comprising acontrol portion; a distal end comprising a distal tip, wherein saiddistal tip comprises: a lens, a sensor device comprising: a firstprinted circuit board, a second printed circuit board, an image sensormovably coupled to the first printed circuit board, a first flexiblecoupling having a first end coupled to the first printed circuit boardand a second end coupled to the image sensor to electrically connect thefirst printed circuit board to the image sensor, a second flexiblecoupling having a first end coupled to the first printed circuit boardand a second end coupled to the second printed circuit board toelectrically connect the first printed circuit board to the secondprinted circuit board; wherein the first flexible coupling and thesecond flexible coupling maintain an electrical connection between thefirst printed circuit board, the second printed circuit board, and theimage sensor as the image sensor moves relative to the first printedcircuit board and the second printed circuit board upon actuation of thecontrol portion.
 37. The endoscope of claim 36, wherein the firstflexible coupling includes a first cable, a pin coupled to the firstcable, and a second cable coupled to the pin.
 38. The endoscope of claim37, wherein the first cable is coupled to the image sensor, and thesecond cable is coupled to the first printed circuit board.
 39. Theendoscope of claim 36, further comprising a tube configured to move theimage sensor, wherein the tube extends from the sensor device to thecontrol portion.
 40. The endoscope of claim 36, wherein the firstprinted circuit board extends transverse to the second printed circuitboard.
 41. The endoscope of claim 36, further comprising a lens holderand a barrel, wherein the lens is positioned within the barrel, andwherein the barrel extends into the lens holder.
 42. An endoscopecomprising: a proximal end comprising a control portion; a tubeextending from the proximal end to a distal portion of the endoscope; adistal end comprising a distal tip, wherein said distal tip comprises: alens, a sensor device comprising: a printed circuit board, an imagesensor movably coupled to the printed circuit board, and a flexiblecoupling having a first end coupled to the printed circuit board and asecond end coupled to the image sensor to electrically connect theprinted circuit board to the image sensor, wherein the flexible couplingmaintains an electrical connection between the printed circuit board andthe image sensor as the image sensor moves relative to the printedcircuit board upon actuation of the control portion; and a hub coupledto the sensor device and configured to move the image sensor relative tothe lens.
 43. The endoscope of claim 42, wherein a change in pressurewithin the tube moves the hub proximally.
 44. The endoscope of claim 42,wherein the printed circuit board is a first printed circuit board, andthe endoscope further comprises a second printed circuit board coupledto the flexible coupling, wherein the flexible coupling maintains anelectrical connection between the first printed circuit board, thesecond printed circuit board, and the image sensor as the image sensorand the first printed circuit board move relative to the second printedcircuit board upon actuation of the control portion.